BLACK QUARTER. 
315 
the early stages of the disease, as it then shews itself, that we 
have this single chance ; and then our remedial agents must be 
prompt and energetic. When carditis (as is usual) accompanies 
the disease, so intense is the inflammatory action (the symptoms 
of which are very accurately described by Mr. Cook), that death 
soon steps in and closes the scene. The appearances presented 
on a post-mortem examination are — patches of ecchymosis, not 
only in the tissues immediately below the integument, but fol- 
lowing those also of the deeper seated muscles ; and, finally, as 
has been before observed, intense inflammation of the heart. 
If called in within a few hours of the commencement of an 
attack of black- quarter, I begin with a close and searching 
manipulation of the four limbs and body ; if later, what I am 
about to describe will be sufficiently manifest. Upon either the 
arms, shoulders, thighs, or loins, will be found a soft, puffy, 
flattened tumour, on passing the hand over which, with some 
pressure, a crackling sound is emitted, conveying nearly the 
same sensation as that of passing the hand over a shoulder of 
veal after its tissues have been inflated by the butcher. The 
above-named tumour contains gas, evolved from the specific 
character of the inflammation out of the subcutaneous cellular 
membrane. Now, it is not sufficient that this gas be liberated 
by a few simple punctures ; the integument must he removed 
from the entire surface of the tumour with the scalpel, and the 
edges of the wound, and the tissues beneath, slightly touched 
with the actual cautery. A poultice, composed of bran and 
solut. calc, chlorid. of the strength, calc, chlor. 3ss, aquae cong. ; 
should be applied hot to the part, and renewed every four hours. 
As much blood should be taken away as the animal will bear, 
and a full dose of magnes. sulph. cum zingib. given. 
The system must be supported by horning down thick oatmeal 
and linseed gruel, as the appetite is almost invariably lost. 
This, however, is not always accompanied by constipation. 
Such is an outline of the only treatment I have found effi- 
cacious in that fatal disease, black quarter. Some practitioners 
may think it has only its cruelty to recommend it. However, 
experientia docet. 
I have the honor to remain, Sir, 
Your obedient servant. 
May 7th, 1851. 
